Date First Recorded in the Garden: 27/06/2021
Family Cantharidae: The Soldier Beetles
There are around 40 species of this family in the UK, out of a current worldwide total of an estimated 6000.
Rhagonycha lignosa
Adults like the one pictured above will feed on small insects, such as aphids but can also be found feeding at flowers, a species that likes umbellifers.
In the Garden
Our only record of this common species has been on the Ornamental Acer, where it appeared to just stop for a rest. Often associated with woodlands, parklands and hedges, our visitor was likely just passing. Maybe looking for a snack.
Wildlife Garden 